Sunday, August 17, 2014

Xander Demos Guitarcadia CD Review

Right Angles is an intense bit of progressive metal that immediately hits listeners and does not let them go. The arrangements that Demos creates on this album showcase his technical skill, all while creating a narrative that is as rich and fulfilling as any vocal-heavy composition. The same high level of momentum continues with Under a Darkened Sky, an eight-plus minute composition that links together early0-nineties Megadeth with Machine Head. The dynamic that is established between the guitars and drums on this track pushes each constituent element to an entirely new plateau. White Knuckle Driving builds off of the work of Iron Maiden, Dragonforce, and Bliind Guardian to create something that is timeless while still being ultimately approachable by the widest subset of listeners.Xander1


Woodshed Sonata pushes the drums to the forefront, creating a more tribal (Sepultura, C.C. DeVille) approach that stands in bold opposition to the immaculate and polished guitar strains of Chase the Sun. While there is a vibrant and contemporary feel to a great many of the tracks on Guitarcadia, I personally appreciate Demos’ desire on this cut to create something that feels right at home at the earliest years of the nineties. Metagalactic is an authoritative and epic track that packs a number of twists and turns into the space of six minutes; Demos turns this chaos into order.


Guitarcadia is an incredibly furious title that showcases both a guttural and an erudite side of Demos, with numerous compositions that will continue to surprise listeners after repeated plays. Take a trip to Demos’ website for news, the instruments utilized by Demos in his recording, and further information about purchasing lessons.


Top Tracks: Under a Darkened Sky, White Knuckle Driving


Rating: 8.8/10


Xander Demos Guitarcadia CD Review / 2012 Rock N Growl / 10 Tracks /  www.xanderdemos.com/